So where are you from - a NZ perspective
I have just read an interesting article on Huffington Post about the experiences of an American of Asian descent. People keep asking him where he is ‘really from’, even though he was born in Detroit. He rightly points out that this isn’t asked from the Pakeha (white) Americans.
No doubt this is also true in New Zealand.
This got me thinking…it’s inconsistent and it must also be very frustrating but I also find the reverse also inconsistent and frustrating.
Let me explain how I see this as more complex than you may think at first glance.
I was born in New Zealand and have only ever lived here. This is my home and I love this country, I simply couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. We concentrate on ethnicity so much that I’m not seen as a New Zealander, rather a NZ European. I am not European and never will be. I am proud of my heritage but I am a New Zealander. People don’t ask the question about where I’m really from – they’re happy to just lump me into the NZ European grouping. The same would probably apply if I was born elsewhere because I’m Pakeha. At least if they asked, I could tell them.
On the other hand…
In some situations it can be important for people and/or organisations to actually ask someone’s heritage. For example if someone immigrated while young, they may see themselves as American however the traditions and events celebrated by the family may reflect their heritage. ‘Asian’ is a large and diverse group, knowing some Korean celebrations won’t assist with those from Japan. In my case we still celebrate Christmas in a very English way, I have no idea how the French traditionally celebrate.
An even better example of this complexity is someone of Maori descent who was born in Australia as were their parents. Where are they from? Very much born and bred in Australia but also likely to be aware of their whakapapa. In conversation, would they be expected to say the town they were born in or where their iwi is from? In a pub with mates, no doubt the birth town would be expected – but what if the mate was also of Maori descent? Would the same query be applicable in America if both people were of Asian descent?
How far back do you go to say where you are really from? The American writer is, for me, absolutely correct but with a proviso – heritage is important and in some cases, it pays to ask.
Us people are a funny lot.
"
Articles from David Slone
View blogThose that know me, or have even met me briefly, will be aware that self-promotion is simply ‘not my ...
Like many of you, I have been reading a lot of people's thoughts and 'advice' about the world post l ...
I found myself musing business ‘purpose’ this morning. Being awake at 3:oo am leads to some interest ...
You may be interested in these jobs
-
Pastry Cook's Assistant
Found in: Jobs Search NZ C2 - 6 days ago
Let's Work In Nz Ltd Auckland, New Zealand Full timeJob description · • Measurement and mixing of ingredients Notifying the Pastry Chef for low-inventory items · • Setting time cycles for products · • Regulation of cooking temperatures · • Assist in organizing all areas of the kitchen, maintain deliveries and cleanliness of ar ...
-
Senior or Principal People and Culture Business Partner
Found in: JobGet AU C2 - 1 week ago
AECOM Auckland, New ZealandChoose an option to autocomplete your application. You can still fill your profile manually. · Personal information · Fields marked with * are required. · First name · Last name · Email · Place of residence · Phone number · +64 · Experience · Education · On the web · LinkedIn · F ...
-
Health & Safety Advisor
Found in: JobGet AU C2 - 1 week ago
Tribe Tauranga, New ZealandAbout the Company: · This is a business going through change. It's complex, they have a big mandate, an absolute passion for what they deliver, and it's "for purpose" to the core · About the Role: · Joining a dedicated H&S team, and with your own solid exposure to NZ Health & Saf ...
Comments